Project Number: 6402-12130-003-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Oct 01, 2008
End Date: Sep 30, 2013

Objective:
Design improved irrigation application technologies and scheduling techniques using automated technology to detect crop water status and provide site-specific application guidelines. Develop cropping systems, conservation management practices and crop rotations with improved water management and enhanced economic and environmental sustainability.

Approach:
Improved irrigation scheduling and application technologies and water management tools will be developed and delivered to producers to improve water use and crop yield and quality. The research will develop production systems and identify management practices that improve soil quality and increase profitability by incorporating conservation production practices, alternative crops and crop rotations. Profitability of management practices and production systems will be tested with economic analysis. Fundamental principles of successful production systems will be delineated, and examined for impacts on risks, competitiveness and environmental impacts.